外交通訊No.36第1期

initiated by our President Tsai Ing-wen as from 2016, is also the turning point for Taiwan to outreach the Asia-Pacific nations with cultural diplomacy, incorporating the principles of: ● Respect & Recognition of Cultural Diversity & Heritage ● Global Intercultural Dialogue ● Justice, Equality & Interdependence ● The Protection of International Human Rights ● Global Peace & Stability The Taiwan government and our people now fully understand that “ art and culture have a unique way of opening doors, when politics keep them closed ” . Taiwan's rich art, Austronesian connections and diverse cultural heritages are great assets for our nation to engage in people-to-people exchanges through film, music, dance, food and sports, as well as extensive cultural and educational programmes with ASEAN countries and the Philippines to create co-prosperity and forge long- lasting friendships in the South and Southeast-Asian regions. In our globalized world that is marked by volatile political, economic and social turbulences, cultural diplomacy has become paramount to fostering peace & stability throughout the world. I am sure that when cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding are applied at all levels, this modus has the unique ability to influence the “ Global Public Opinion ” and thinking of individuals, communities, cultures or nations to be more tolerant towards one another, there is a ray of hope for this world to have lasting peace and stability. In closing, may I echo former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan by citing his words that “ arts and music can capture a wide range of feelings, go to the essence of things and speak to the soul. It has the power to bind us together and strengthen our sense of community through shared emotions ” . Thank you! Maraming Salamat! Mabuhay! 林大使與「國際和平外交團」（ IPDCI ）來賓合影 49 外交部通訊 The MOFA Quarterly 第 36 卷　第 1 期